Apply for GREAT Scholarships UK: £10,000 for Postgraduate Study10 Views

Apply for GREAT Scholarships 2025–2026: Fully Funded UK Study

Pursuing higher education at world-class institutions represents a transformative milestone for many ambitious students and early-career professionals. The GREAT Scholarships 2025–2026 cycle delivers precisely this opportunity by offering substantial financial support to outstanding international applicants. Funded collaboratively by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council, in partnership with leading universities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, these scholarships enable recipients to undertake one-year, full-time taught postgraduate courses that foster academic excellence, cultural exchange and enduring global networks.

With over 200 awards available across more than 70 prestigious institutions, the GREAT Scholarships programme is designed to accelerate both academic achievement and professional development. Whether you are a recent graduate aiming to deepen your expertise, a researcher seeking new perspectives or a professional preparing for leadership roles, this fully funded initiative can serve as the defining step in your academic journey ¹.

About the GREAT Scholarships

The GREAT Scholarships 2025–2026 constitute a prestigious initiative backed by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and delivered through the British Council in collaboration with select UK universities. Aimed at attracting exceptional talent from 18 eligible countries, the programme provides recipients with a £10,000 contribution towards tuition fees for one-year taught master’s degrees across diverse fields.

Key Features:

• Duration: One-year, full-time taught master’s programmes
• Mode of Study: Onsite at participating UK universities
• Financial Support: Minimum £10,000 tuition fee contribution; many institutions offer additional bursaries or fee waivers
• Fields Covered: Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Business, Law, Social Sciences and more
• Special Categories: Dedicated awards for Justice & Law, and Science & Technology disciplines

Scholars also gain access to exclusive Welcome and Networking events, providing opportunities to build professional relationships with peers, faculty and industry leaders.

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Qualifications

• Undergraduate Degree: Must hold a bachelor’s degree that meets the entry requirements for postgraduate study at a UK university
• Relevance: Degree subject should align closely with the chosen master’s programme

Professional or Research Experience

• While not mandatory, relevant work placements or research projects can significantly strengthen an application, particularly for highly competitive fields.

Nationality Restrictions

Applicants must be citizens of one of these 18 countries:
Bangladesh, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, Greece, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam. Each nation’s dedicated page on the official site lists participating universities and available courses.

Language Requirements

• English Proficiency: Must satisfy the English language requirements of the host institution
• Accepted Tests: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic (scores vary by university)

Other Requirements

• University Offer: Applicants must receive a conditional or unconditional offer for a one-year taught master’s programme at a participating university
• Scholarship Application: Depending on the institution, a separate scholarship application may be required, or consideration may be automatic upon admission.

Application Process

1. Identify Participating Universities: Consult the official GREAT Scholarships webpage for your country to see which UK institutions are offering awards.
2. Select a Course: Choose a one-year taught postgraduate programme that aligns with your academic background and future goals.
3. Apply for Admission: Submit your application directly to the chosen university, adhering to their deadlines and requirements.
4. Submit Scholarship Application: Where required, complete any additional scholarship application forms by the university deadline.
5. Await Outcome: Successful candidates are notified by the respective universities and given instructions for acceptance.

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight academic achievements, research experience and relevant skills
• Statement of Purpose: Clearly articulate motivations, objectives and how the programme supports your aspirations
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically two, from academic or professional referees familiar with your capabilities
• Academic Transcripts: Official records of undergraduate and any postgraduate qualifications
• English Test Scores: Official results from IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic
• Passport Copy: Valid identification document
• Supplementary Materials: Some universities may request a research proposal, portfolio or financial statements.

Fields of Study / Research Areas Supported

The GREAT Scholarships encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines, including:

• Science & Technology: Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science
• Humanities & Social Sciences: History, Sociology, Political Science
• Business & Finance: Economics, Accounting, International Business
• Arts & Creative Industries: Fine Arts, Design, Media Studies
• Law & Justice: International Law, Human Rights, Criminal Justice

Specialist scholarships are available for Justice & Law and for Science & Technology fields, ensuring targeted support for these critical areas.

Financial Benefits

• Tuition Fee Contribution: At least £10,000 towards one-year master’s tuition fees
• Additional Support: Some institutions provide top-up awards or living-cost stipends
• Professional Development: Invitations to networking events that facilitate contacts with academics and industry experts

Selection Process

1. Application Review

• Eligibility Verification: Confirmation of nationality, academic credentials and English proficiency
• Document Assessment: Evaluation of transcripts, CV, statement of purpose and recommendation letters

2. Shortlisting

• Academic Merit: Assessment of grades, research output and honours
• Fit with Programme: Relevance of applicant background to course objectives
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrated motivation, resilience and capacity to contribute to the cohort

3. Interviews

• Invitation: Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview in person or via video conferencing
• Discussion Topics: Academic interests, career aims and reasons for selecting the specific course and university

4. Final Selection

• Notification: Universities inform successful candidates
• Acceptance: Scholars formally accept the offer and complete any further administrative requirements

Important Application Deadlines

• Application Opens: January 2025
• Deadline Window: March–May 2025 (varies by institution)
• Interview Period: April–June 2025
• Results Announced: May–July 2025
• Programme Start: September 2025

Applicants should verify exact dates on each university’s scholarship webpage.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Craft a Compelling Statement of Purpose

• Be Specific: Detail how the chosen programme aligns with your long-term objectives
• Demonstrate Impact: Explain how the scholarship will enable you to contribute positively to your field and community
• Reflect Growth: Share experiences that showcase adaptability and perseverance

Build a Strong Academic CV

• Highlight Achievements: Include awards, publications, presentations and relevant experience
• Tailor Content: Emphasise skills and accomplishments most relevant to the scholarship criteria

Secure Persuasive Letters of Recommendation

• Select Appropriate Referees: Choose individuals who know you well academically or professionally
• Provide Context: Share your goals and scholarship details to guide referees

Prepare for the Interview

• Conduct Research: Familiarise yourself with the university’s mission, course structure and faculty expertise
• Practice Responses: Rehearse answers to common questions, focusing on clarity and confidence

Contact Information

For specific queries regarding the GREAT Scholarships, reach out to the British Council in your region. For example, in India:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +91 11 4149 9000
• Website: https://www.britishcouncil.in

Contact details for other countries are available on the British Council’s official site.

Spotlight: Loughborough University – GREAT Scholarships 2025

Loughborough University, in partnership with the British Council, offers three GREAT Scholarships valued at £15,000 each for postgraduate students from Bangladesh, Egypt, Kenya and Turkey. These awards provide a partial tuition fee waiver for any one-year taught master’s programme at Loughborough.

Key Details:

• Eligible Countries: Bangladesh, Egypt, Kenya, Turkey
• Number of Awards: Three
• Scholarship Value: £15,000 (partial fee waiver)
• Course Scope: All taught master’s programmes at Loughborough University
• Admission Requirement: Applicants must hold a conditional or unconditional offer
• Language Proficiency: Must meet English requirements by the application deadline
• Deadline: 25 May 2025

Conclusion

The GREAT Scholarships 2025–2026 provide an exceptional gateway for international students to pursue one-year master’s programmes in the UK with up to £10,000 in tuition support, plus access to premier academic networks and professional events. By alleviating financial barriers and promoting global collaboration, these awards empower scholars to excel in their chosen fields and forge impactful careers on the world stage. To embark on this opportunity, apply now through the official portal and take the decisive step towards your scholarly ambitions.²

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Citation List

1. https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships
2. https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships/india

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